Daven – Gateways Org

by Just Ask February 28, 2017

JustAsk

Shabbat of Blessing – Shabbat Mevarchim

Question: I recently started going to the Synagogue on Shabbat and noticed this past week that the congregation said a special prayer called “Blessing of the New Month”. Would you please tell me more about this blessing? Thanks. AskTheRabbi.org answered: Good question. On the Shabbat before the new Jewish month begins (except for the Shabbat before Rosh Hashana for mystical reasons), an announcement is made to the congregation to inform them when the ...

by Just Ask February 22, 2017

JustAsk

Shakesprayer

Question: Why do many people sway back and forth while praying? I’ve seen others who do not and this seems more respectful to me. Is either way the correct way or the better way? AskTheRabbi.org answered: Both are correct and acceptable. The deciding factor is which way helps a person to have better concentration on the prayer. Swaying during prayer (and Torah study) – is often called “shuckling” – and is a widespread and ...